Batboard

Some months back I made a post about my interest in jobs in electronics. I will be turning 50 years old in October and I am focusing on jobs from cellular providers. I am just wondering if anybody knows of any forums where cell phone technicians might hang out? Also, my only certifications are:

-General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL)

-Amateur Radio Operator-Extra Class

One opening at AT&T lists "Must also have at least 2 years related technical training or equivalent experience, or have minimum of 1-year time in title as Wireless Technician I." Does anybody have any idea how competitive openings are for jobs like these? My assumption is that based on the current economy, competition is keen. Also, any idea what a GROL and ham ticket equate to compared to formal technical training? My background is law enforcement, so I have used Motorolas since Micors were considered cutting edge. I have programmed radios, but other than that I really haven't made use of my GROL. Also, are most wireless companies likely to have career advancement if I were to start somewhere else in the company? I am not much of a salesman, but I suppose I could start at a cell phone store if I thought it would lead eventually to a wireless technician job. I could even go back to school, if necessary, but I suspect that at least some material would be redundant to what I learned to get my GROL. Also, are there other certifications that might be more worthwhile to get a job like this?

Anyway, rather than ramble on, any insight into the industry would be greatly appreciated.

With a GROL you could get a job at pretty much any government agency here in California as a communications electrician or technician, pay out here ranges from $40k to $80k a year depending on the agency and I challenge you to find a better public pension system anywhere in the US. Your only problem is your age, you will not have as many years to pay into the pension but I know they will be happy to overlook your age especially if it comes with a commensurate number of years of experience. I can't for the cellcos but it's basically impossible to get fired from a gov't position out here.

Keep your eye on the APCO website as well www.apco911.org. They post technician jobs from time to time and I know that Miami-Dade County was looking a few months ago, but I believe they wanted someone with point to point microwave experience. Not sure if they ever filled it.

Also there are still a number of opportunities with rebanding and the public/private sector in a number of areas. They may be part-time positions, but at least you could get official experience with the subscriber equipment.

I joined the City of Long Beach at 50. I will retire around 66 so I will have 16 years times 2.7% times 66K. It is certainly time enough for a fair retirement starting at 50.

The real problem is that most cities, counties, and states are broke. Long Beach has a hireing freeze and we lost our three open positions. We have an 18 mil deficit for next year. The City of LA is even worse.

In our industry most techs are old timers. Except for public safety, most of the small businesses that used to have a two way radio system now use cellular. No one new is entering the field.

I think you will find that the market for radio techs has changed over the years. Some 10
years ago, you would see adds for jobs that required a degree to be even given a job
interview. The reason was all the young managers that felt that if they had a degree,
then anyone else coming in the door would have to have one also. With time, this has
faded away and the concentration is more on your background experience.

With the FCC doing away with it being required to have a "FIRST CLASS" license to work
on or service 2 way transmitters, a new requirement popped up. Instead of the hiring
managers trying to really find out how technical a person was or how much they knew,
the requirement was to have one of the second standby certificates from one of several
groups. This made the radio tech study (memorize) the test information in order to take
the written exam. The requirement saved the hiring company the effort of taking the
time to weed out or through those that applied without the certificate. Again this left
out many real good techs that didn't take the time to get certified.

This is where I have to point out that the radio techs that have not managed to obtain
the certifications may have some real reasons why not. Personally I know a good handful
of people that fall into this group. In most cases, they are working way too many hours
just to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads to stop and study for the exam.
Maybe this will weed out the poor techs, but it sure won't weed out the good ones that
are trying to just survive.

As radio shops around the country find it hard to compete with the cellular phone craze
today and keep loosing their business customers, the pickings keep getting slimmer and
slimmer to find good radio shops these days. I see a number of them doing the bare
minimum repair work so as to sort of cause return service calls. Can tell you of several
that service public safety agencies where I have stumbled across poorly aligned tone
remote control circuits. If you point this out to them and try to get them to correct
the problem, their stand is unless the agency is going to pay them, it will remain the
way it is. What I am talking about is the levels are set so low, that any additional
loss in the phone line will take out the radio circuit. To me, this is wrong and is done
so that these shops can get a service call when the weather turns bad.

Anyway, back to the hunt for radio techs. Another point is that the good ones have
not changed jobs very often. In many cases, these techs don't even know how to
make up a good resume to allow them to look for a job. They don't know how to go
into an interview and even answer the simple questions posed to them. They generally
are doomed to fail doing good in the interview. Do you think having a radio certificate
is going to help them much? You can find many of the techs today with a certificate
that have a problem trying to figure out why a radio won't turn on from a blown fuse.
Don't get me wrong here, there are some real good techs out there with the certificates.
However, these good techs are far and few between.

The company I work for has constant adds out and see very few techs contact us about
the openings. Maybe the location of these jobs is one reason the pickings are few. It
is expensive to live in many areas and people don't want to move and find out they can't
afford to live there. The pay is good for most of the jobs that are posted. It's the
region and cost that limit the takers.

Jim

Jim1348 wrote:One opening at AT&T lists "Must also have at least 2 years related technical training or equivalent experience, or have minimum of 1-year time in title as Wireless Technician I."

I think you should give it a try and see how far you get, but don't hold your breath. The cellular folks are spending millions on their infrastructure, and they won't let an inexperienced person touch it for good reason. As already mentioned, make applications to local public agencies, and the local radio shops as well. It is tough out there, and you have to scramble to find work that pays the bills. As Jim mentioned, spend some time getting your certs like CET, and a low voltage license. They all come in handy when trying to demonstrate competence. There is a good chance you will find someone who will let you get a second career going especially if you bring other things to the table like maturity, leadership qualities, customer skills, timely paperwork, and an appreciation for business. A good technical foundation is wonderful, but the ability to look it up, to RTFM and understand what you just read, to ask questions, and to follow through are the real secret to success because the technology itself changes very quickly.

You will never know it all, and you shouldn't act like you do. I've said it a hundred times to our guys - you have to have the courage to be wrong to survive in this business. At 50, you've probably learned that lesson. You take pride in your work, but you don't invest your pride. You can argue your case with some passion, but you should be able to recognize the right answer when someone else gives it to you. The blood on the bleeding edge is yours.

I found a URL for them http://www.iscet.org/index.html thanks again everybody for the replies.

One suggestion for anyone considering taking a public sector job for the security and benefits:

Do it now if you can find one!

In many states, including California, there is talk of substantially changing benefits for new employees. Some of this is political and tends to surface especially during election years. The merits, economics, and politics of the various proposals are beyond the scope of this forum.

What is important for job seekers is that there is a real possibility of at least some significant benefit changes that will adversely impact folks hired after the effective date of the changes, but have little -- or much less -- effect upon those already on the payroll. You want to be in the latter group if possible.

GlennD wrote:I joined the City of Long Beach at 50. I will retire around 66 so I will have 16 years times 2.7% times 66K. It is certainly time enough for a fair retirement starting at 50.

2.7% is a darn good multiplier. Florida Retirement System is 1.6% for low risk and 3% for high risk employees. The good thing is that I don't have to contribute a dime to it, at least not at this time.
I have been going at it since I was 24 and can officially walk away with 30 years of service in early 2018 at a ripe young age of 54. My yearly retirement is currently calculated to be around $60K a year unless I want to stay longer.

Do you have to contribute any portion of your paycheck to the City's retirement system Glenn?

We pay for social security and 2 or 3% of the Calpers retirement. When I joined it was 1.8% but we paid an additional percent to go to 2.7%. Public safety people get 3% at 50. Ours is 2.7% at 55.

I have been continuously employed in the two way industry for many years. Every time I changed jobs it was because I got a better offer from someone else. I am almost 60 now, and I don't even know how to fill OUT a resume. Never needed one, as every job was 'how much you want?', and 'when can you start?'.

I am sure (since everyone I work with here is the same way) that there are a LOT of techs out there that couldn't pass the sight unseem resume thing but are very good techs.

I don't know what part of the country you are located in, but in the NYC metro area we have been advertising for radio techs for 2 years. The MTA is a quasi governmental agency the maintains radios, bases, and portables for Metro North Commuter rail road. If I am not mistaken there is still at least one opening still available. Expect a lot more in the next 2-3 years as all the employees retire after 30 years and the MTA will be 30 years old in 2013.

I did find this while searching for jobs this weekend. I am just curious if anybody here works for a railroad. I am just looking for a little insight if they are a good place to work. I note the statement "A General FCC License is not required, however applicants hired who possess an FCC License will be paid a differential." Is that common in the industry, that it is not required, but a differential will be paid? Also, any idea what a typical differential might be for something like this? Are we talking $1.00 per hour or am I way too optimistic? Also, do positions like this generally work 8 hour, 10 hour, or 12 hour shifts?

BNSF E-Recruiting
01146705 External Publication of Job Posting
Telecommunications Maintenance
Job Posting Title
10/14/2010
Start Date
Telecommunications Maintenance
Job Title
BNSF Railway operates one of the nation’s largest rail networks, with approximately 32,000 route miles operating through 28 states across the western United States. BNSF is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. For more than 160 years we have proudly served our customers by safely and efficiently delivering commodities such as coal, grain, steel and consumer products. The dedication, talent and creativity of our 38,000 employees have helped distinguish BNSF as an innovative and progressive leader within the transportation industry. To learn more about our company, our culture and our opportunities, please visit us online at www.bnsf.com/careers.
Company
Anticipated Closing Date: Posting closes at 11:59PM (CST) on (10-22-2010). Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date.
Anticipated Start Date: Oct. 2010 subject to change based on business need
Positions Available: One
Work Location: Minneapolis, MN
This posting is for the above geographic location ONLY. If interested in other geographic locations, please visit the BNSF career website and apply directly to those locations when/if available.
Salary/Benefits: Pay rate is approximately $25.62 per hour. BNSF employees receive an annual benefit package valued at $22,000. A General FCC License is not required, however applicants hired who possess an FCC License will be paid a differential. The terms of the collective bargaining agreement shall apply.
Department
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: This position is responsible for installing, testing, inspecting, maintaining, repairing, troubleshooting, assembling and/or dismantling inside/outside communications equipment, parts and
Tasks
related items. Headquarter location, travel and work within assigned geographic area.
SAFETY: Comply with company and federal safety rules, policies and procedures to include wearing required safety equipment, responding to safety concerns and taking appropriate action.
INSTALL, TEST AND MAINTAIN: Fiber optics, cables, towers, antenna work, power plant, and microwave / radio site maintenance. Termination of overhead/underground cabling and fiber. Tower work, including tower erection and rigging as well as civil work including light construction and building maintenance.
OPERATE EQUIPMENT: Bucket truck, boom truck, auger truck, back hoes, bobcats, snowcats, and all terrain vehicle.
Basic Qualifications: • 21 years of age or older. • High School diploma or GED. • BNSF is a drug-free company and employees will be subject to random drug tests. • Willing to be submit to an employment, criminal and driving background review. • Available to work in the geographic area indicated. • Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English. • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions: hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet. • Available to work a 40 hour work week subject to overtime, on-call and alternate shifts that may include weeknights, weekends and holidays. • Available to travel around the seniority (designated) region and remain away from home for up to days or weeks at a time. • Able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. • Have a valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), or be able to obtain one within 60 days of employment. • Able to visually distinguish among red, blue, green and yellow colors, hear, and with training, distinguish auditory signals. • Able to use hands to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning and pulling. • Able to perform work on uneven surfaces; frequently climb ladders and on/off equipment, as well as work from a boom truck basket. • Able to work in conditions that include loud noise and fumes, work on and around heavy and moving machinery, bend, walk, stand and sit for extended periods of time and use hand tools. • Follow safety policies and procedures and wear the required personal protective equipment required for the job in a safe manner.
Training: Company paid on-the-job training is provided.
Relocation: Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
Work Conditions: Extreme all-weather conditions; un-even surfaces; safety sensitive work environment.
Probationary Period: 120 Days.
Travel: Moderate.
Shifts/Hours: 40-hour work week subject to overtime, on-call and alternate shifts that may include weeknights, weekends and holidays. Shifts are governed by union agreement subject to seniority.
Requirements
Union: International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Dues: Per the collective bargaining agreement, union membership and monthly dues are required.
Background Investigation Elements: • Extensive criminal record review. • Verification of last 7 years of driving and employment history to include military service. • Social Security number verification. • Academic and Education verification.
Pre-Employment Medical Qualification Process (to include, but not limited to: medical history questionnaire; physical capabilities test; physical exam; BNSF and FRA-required drug screen).
Drug Test: BNSF uses a hair test for illegal drugs in its employment application process. Please note that it will be necessary for you to provide a hair specimen for this test, which will test for illegal or illicit drug use in the past 90 days. Hair specimens can be collected from EITHER the head or body and can be taken from several locations to get the required amount necessary for testing. Studies indicate that the head hair grows an average of 1/2 inch per month. You will not be able to progress an application for employment unless you are able to provide an adequate hair specimen for testing. Hair collections will be done at the BNSF Hiring Event. If you cannot pass this test, please do not attend. For more information regarding hair testing, please visit http://www.bnsf.com/careers/pdf/hair_testing.pdf.
We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for the position. These general categories do not necessarily constitute an exhaustive list of duties of the position.
All applicants will be notified by email regarding orientation, testing and interviews for this position. Please be sure to check your email on a daily basis.
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC): Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC. A TWIC is a condition of employment for such positions and requires candidates to those positions to submit to a TSA security assessment (to include, but not limited to, providing: biographic information; identity documents; fingerprints; digital photograph). More information is available at www.tsa.gov/twic.
Scheduled
Contract Type
Full-time
Employment Fraction
MN - Minneapolis
Branch
Minneapolis
City

No differential here, but it is a requirement for the position, and before you can even sit for our own internal FCC style test. BTW from reading other posts about BNSF, they have 2 types of radio maintainers, those that do first line repair on the engine, and then bench repair. For the most part the first line just changes out the radio.